author
Samuel Cobb
1675–1713
Known for lively wit and a light, ironic touch, this English poet and schoolmaster moved easily between criticism, translation, and verse. His work belongs to the literary world of the early eighteenth century, with a voice remembered as clever, good-humored, and engaging.
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About the author
Born in London and baptized in 1675, Samuel Cobb was an English poet, critic, and schoolmaster. He was educated at Christ's Hospital and later at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he earned his B.A. and M.A. He went on to return to Christ's Hospital as a master, keeping teaching at the center of his working life.
Cobb wrote poetry from his student years onward, and he became known for verse that mixed literary ambition with an easy, playful manner. Sources describe him as especially noted for a light-hearted, ironic style and for a reputation as a witty, good-natured figure. Alongside original poetry, he also worked as a translator and classical scholar.
Though not among the biggest names of his age, Cobb has remained of interest to readers of early modern and eighteenth-century literature. He died in 1713, leaving behind a body of work that reflects both the learning and the sociable wit of his period.